Center for Learning Strategies

Center for Learning Strategies (CLS)

The Center for Learning Strategies (CLS), formerly the Rockford College Learning Center, is a service of Rockford University offering academic support to members of the community. Since being established in 1952, the Center has provided remedial and enrichment programs for more than 30,000 people from ages 4-72. The CLS emphasizes quality teaching with a strong commitment to aid each student in attaining academic potential while directing the student towards independent learning and improved personal achievement.

Our programming includes:

Academic programs during the Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer semesters

Learning Garden summer academic camps

SUMMIT Discovery Day Camp

World Awareness Program—new program for high school and middle school students

Philosophy of the CLS

The fundamental purpose of the CLS is to provide an educational program designed to maximize individual abilities and potentials because we believe that all people have the right to an educational program best suited to their abilities and needs. To achieve this purpose, the Center provides professional interpretation of learning strengths/weaknesses, recommendations/strategies to develop personal learning plans, a positive learning environment, individual tutoring or small group instruction, a stimulating environment, an appropriate pacing of instruction and instruction at the learner's skill level.

Our philosophy is based on a dedication to maximize abilities and potential through the educational program.

The philosophy is founded on the belief that:

individual improvement in academic achievement is attainable;

individuals possess untapped potential which can be challenged;

learning occurs through valid teaching methods;

successful instruction focuses on individual learning styles/needs;

individuals become academically adept through careful guidance;

successful achievement leads to further success;

learning takes place when the student is treated with dignity, respect and worth;

All of our staff members are certified teachers, with master of education degrees in reading, learning disabilities, mathematics or certification in specialized areas. Our teachers are selected based upon academic qualifications, experience, ability to relate to students and positive approach to educating the individual person.

All CLS courses are structured around the needs and interests of the student using current and proven research and methods. A variety of techniques and approaches are used for all programs. The curriculum is structured around the needs of the enrolled students, so the curriculum changes from semester to semester and student to student. The focus is on the individual building self-esteem, encouraging success and making learning a positive and rewarding experience.